Standalone eNode-B design with integrated virtual EPC in public safety networks

LTE technology is considered as the next enabler of the public safety networks with regard of its performance and reliability. The mission critical communication in public safety network requires non-stop connectivity, especially in natural disaster scenarios. To provide further reliability, the eNode-Bs should ensure connectivity when the backhaul connection fails. This paper proposes a standalone eNode-B architecture, which deploys its own integrated virtual EPC to ensure service without backhaul connection. The proposed standalone eNode-Bs are also designed to establish backhaul connection with each other to extend the coverage without need for a central EPC structure. Standalone LTE solutions for PSNs that fall within the scope of this paper, aim to offer resiliency, robustness, dynamicity, and high quality service. The basic LTE functions and further design challenges, related to connected or non-connected standalone eNode-Bs, are discussed through the paper.